National Union of Journalists Malaysia condemns assault on Haresh Deol, calls for press freedom protection
PETALING JAYA: The National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) has expressed deep concern over what it describes as a worrying rise in physical attacks against media practitioners, following the latest assault involving a senior journalist earlier today.
In a statement, NUJM strongly condemned the attack, calling it an unacceptable act against the journalism profession and emphasising the urgent need to protect press freedom and the safety of media personnel.
“This is the second recent incident involving journalist safety. We are deeply concerned and hope this does not become a dangerous trend for the country’s media industry, which has long championed transparency, fairness and integrity,” the union said.
NUJM urged authorities to carry out a thorough and independent investigation into the case, reiterating the need for justice to be served “without fear or favour”.
The union also called for swift preventive measures to ensure journalists can carry out their duties without threat or intimidation, noting that they play a crucial role as the “eyes and ears” of the public and as agents of national development.
“Any form of intimidation, harassment or attack on journalists is a direct assault on the public’s right to truth,” NUJM stressed, adding that it will continue to monitor the investigation and expects firm action against those responsible under Malaysian law.
The incident involved National Press Club deputy president Haresh Deol, who reported being attacked by two individuals — while a third recorded the assault — in Bangsar around 4pm.
“I’ve just been attacked by two individuals, with another taking a video of myself being attacked. I have just lodged a police report,” the 43-year-old journalist posted on X.Haresh, an award-winning journalist and co-founder of news platform Twentytwo13, suffered injuries to his face, hands and body after falling while trying to escape.
His wife and colleague, Pearl Lee, said this was the first such attack in his 25-year career.
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Brickfields district police chief ACP Hoo Chang Hook confirmed that a report has been filed and that the matter is being investigated under Section 323 of the Penal Code for causing hurt.
“Three suspects are believed to have assaulted the victim.
“The suspects have yet to be identified and efforts to track them down are ongoing,” he said.
The investigating officer will apply for an order to investigate (OTI) from the deputy public prosecutor on Nov 26, 2025, to obtain permission to proceed with further investigation.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact investigating officer ASP Mohd Adnan Alias at 019-216 2272, the Brickfields district police hotline at 03-2297 9222, the Kuala Lumpur police hotline at 03-2115 9999, or the nearest police station.
